After a day of rest and recovery, the players returned to the pitch in high spirits following their journey. The training conditions were assessed as favourable, with a good quality pitch meeting technical requirements and enabling the coaching staff to implement their training plans effectively.

Weather conditions in Jeddah were relatively comfortable despite daytime sunshine, with temperatures ranging between 26 and 32 degrees Celsius and cooler conditions in the late afternoon, helping players adapt quickly.

Head coach Cristiano Roland said the team are prioritising regaining match rhythm during this stage of preparation. He emphasised that the first session was aimed at helping players readjust to the pitch, the ball and the pace of competition after travel.

He expressed satisfaction with the players’ attitude and commitment, noting that they are fully focused on reaching peak condition for the tournament. He also underlined that the AFC U17 Asian Cup represents a significantly higher level of competition, requiring thorough and intensive preparation.

The coaching staff is also focusing on key tactical elements, including ball organisation, defensive coordination and finishing efficiency. Roland acknowledged that improvements are still needed, particularly in tactical movement and goal scoring, but said the players are aware of these areas and are working to address them in each training session.

Reflecting on lessons from the previous edition, Roland stressed the importance of maintaining concentration and making the most of every opportunity. He noted that while the players have strong attacking potential, achieving positive results will depend on maintaining balance between offence and defence.

At the 2025 tournament, Vietnam drew all three group matches and failed to progress, a result that the coaching staff has used as a key lesson for the current squad. Roland reiterated that players must avoid wasting critical moments during matches and strive for maximum performance in every situation in order to secure victories.

According to the schedule, Vietnam will continue their preparations in the coming days before facing Yemen on May 7 in their opening Group C match. The fixture is considered crucial in the team’s bid to advance to the quarterfinals.

The AFC U17 Asian Cup 2026 will take place from May 5 to May 22, featuring 15 teams divided into four groups. The top two teams from each group will advance to the quarterfinals and secure qualification for the 2026 FIFA U17 World Cup. Vietnam are drawn in Group C alongside Yemen, the Republic of Korea and the United Arab Emirates.

Vietnam U17 face Yemen in AFC U17 Asian Cup 2026 opener

VOV.VN - Vietnam U17 will play their opening match of the AFC U17 Asian Cup 2026 against Yemen U17 at 00:00 on May 7 (Vietnam time), in a key match that directly affects both teams’ chances of reaching the quarter-finals and qualifying for the U17 World Cup.